FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to get up in the middle of the night? A: No, our first community prayer is at 5:45 AM.

Q: Do the monks live in dormitories? A: No, each monk has a simple but comfortable room.

Q: Do I have to give up my car? A: Yes. In fact, no one is entitled to personal property. The monastery’s goods are held in common for the benefit of all.

Q: Can I visit my family? A: Yes, but generally in the summer when school is not in session, except in the case of family emergencies.

Q: How often do you pray together? A: We pray together four times daily and at the community Mass. There is also time for private prayer, another obligation the monks follow.

Q: Is there someone I can talk to about practical questions without bothering a monk? A: Certainly, ask Dom Gregory, the Vocation Director. He will be more than happy to help you.

Q: You make it sound easy. Is it? A: Actually, the call requires rigorous self-examination. You must also have a sincere love of prayer, dedicated obedience, a capacity for solitude, and perseverance. The monk needs all of these qualities and the desire to deepen them.

Q: What’s the process that leads to solemn profession? A: See “Stages of Becoming a Monk” for the answer.